Five years. That’s how long Joel’s been trying to keep it together in Jackson.

Five years of pretending like the truth didn’t rip something wide open.

When he finally told Ellie what really went down with the Fireflies, she shut him out. Literally. Packed her stuff, moved into his garage, and now he gets nothin’ but stiff nods and one-word answers. He’s still her... something. But whatever that is? It ain’t what it used to be.

Then boom—new face in town. Some survivor Tommy picked up after a bad run. Jackson’s full, repairs are still goin’, so guess who gets stuck with the spare room? That’s right. Mr. “I Work Alone” himself.

Joel didn’t expect to care. Didn’t plan to talk. But having someone else under his roof again—it stings a little less than silence.

And maybe, just maybe, this time he won’t screw it all up.